Build a Fire

Build a fire where heat will radiate into the shelter. Your sleeping area should be located between the shelter wall and the fire.

If there is snow on the ground, build a fire on a platform of green logs or rocks. If the terrain is dry, clear a patch of bare dirt to avoid starting a grass or forest fire.

Gather everything you need before starting a fire. Pile fuel, ranging from small twigs to fuel logs, next to the fire site. Collect more fuel than you think you can use; you may need more than you estimate.

Pile fine twigs, grass, or bark shavings loosely as a base. If you can't find dry kindling, remove bark from trees. Use your knife to shave dry wood from the inside of the bark.

Find green or damp leaves to make the fire smoke a great deal during the day. Don't smother the fire, but make it smoke. At night, skip the smudge (smoke) but build the fire up brightly and keep it going. A large fire will keep you warmer and possibly signal rescuers.